Click on the 'Listen' button above to hear this interview. Earlier this week,the FDA approved a digital version of the antipsychotic medication Abilify. Each pill contains a tiny sensor that, once swallowed, or emits an electric charge. That charge is picked up by a small patch worn on the patient's ribs. The patch then sends that information via Bluetooth to a smartphone app.
Many see this advanced technology as a potential means to increase the number of patients who take their medication as prescribed. approximately a half of all patients fail to adhere to their doctor's orders. In cases where it may be difficult for patients to remember their daily regiment,a smartphone app seems like a way to boost the adherence rate.
But others are concerned approximately the potential for abuse. Could a patient's privacy be at stake? What does this latest innovation spell for the future of medicine? Emily Largent is an assistant professor of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvania. She joins The Takeaway to discuss the implications of digital pills.
This segment is hosted by Todd Zwillich
Source: thetakeaway.org